Network Modernisation

This project is now complete.

For any queries regarding the network, please log a ticket via the MyIT Portal or contact the ITDS Service Desk on 8313 3000.

About the project

Beginning in early 2020 with a business case and approval from the Vice-Chancellor and University Council, we designed, developed, and executed the deployment of upgrading the network on January 7, 2024.

The team successfully completed the network transition on schedule, adhering to industry best practices that enhanced our university’s operational capabilities. The final building officially transitioned to the new network on 21 August 2024, marking the completion of the project.

The modern network delivered a customer-centric focus while driving and supporting key benefits to the University, which included:

• Increased wireless and wired network coverage and speed​
• Enhanced network resilience and reliability, significantly reducing risk​
• Enabled a seamless experience for users connecting to the network​
• Enhanced network security to protect University data and devices​
• Enhanced support services for students and staff
• Created energy efficiencies and reduced the University’s carbon footprint​
• Further supporting the University of Adelaide's Cyber Security journey towards Zero Trust

This initiative was one of the key strategic technology enablers of the University’s Digital Future strategy, pivotal in supporting the University in achieving its strategic objectives.

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Project Implementation 

​Network assets refresh ​

Technicians installed new network cabling and equipment in all in-scope University buildings and campuses.​

New network transition 

Adhering to tight work schedules, all in-scope campuses were migrated to the new network in a staged approach between January 2024 to August 2024.

• Infrastructure Overhaul: 1,244 switches were replaced, and 3,363 wireless access points installed in 164 buildings, across multiple floors.
• Increased Connectivity: A 35% increase in wireless access points, improving the University’s indoor and outdoor coverage.
• Dedicated Efforts: Staff and contractors contributed 4,242 hours on night shifts and travelled as far as Port Lincoln to perform network upgrades.
• Device Migration: Approximately 40,000 devices connected to the network had their IP addresses seamlessly changed.

The Network Modernisation project delivers substantial benefits, including:

• Enhanced Network Security: robust authentication measures for users and devices across wired and wireless connections, to support the zero trust security model. 
• Improved Network Performance: Connectivity speeds have significantly increased across all locations, optimising operational efficiency.
• Strengthened Network Resilience: eliminating single points of failure and bolstering reliability by establishing multiple layers of redundancy.
• Implementation of New Technologies: integrations of Wi-Fi 6, augmented monitoring tools, and enhanced cyber threat detection capabilities.
• Cutting-Edge Foundations: network supports advanced tools, analytics, and systems that provide invaluable insights.
• Vendor Support: transitioned from a network where 80% of hardware was end-of-life to a robust and fully supported network environment.

NOTE: If you are using a personal device (BYOD) or a non-Standard Operating Environment (non-SOE) device please access our network onboarding tool to download and install the configuration corresponding to the new network. (this is not required for University Standard Operating Environment (SOE) devices).